Control on Import and Export of Waste
The Control Scheme
Waste Disposal Ordinance
Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO) , Chapter 354, Laws of Hong Kong, is the local legislation effecting control on waste import and export operations. It is enforced by EPD.
Under the WDO, the import into or export from Hong Kong of
(a) any waste of a kind specified in the 6th Schedule, unless the waste is uncontaminated and is imported or exported for the purpose of a reprocessing, recycling or recovery operation or the reuse of the waste;
(b) any waste of a kind specified in the 7th Schedule, or not specified in the 6th Schedule;
(c) any e-waste that does not fall within the description of paragraph (a) or (b); or
(d) any container waste that does not fall within the description of paragraph (a) or (b) (effective from 1 May 2023)
requires a permit.
A person who conducts controlled waste import/export activities without a permit commits an offence. A first offence could be fined a maximum of up to HK$200,000 plus a 6 month prison term. A repeated offence could be fined up to HK$500,000 plus a 2 year prison term.
[ Important Note : "Disposal" of imported waste is prohibited ! ]
